Lubiri was buzzing with excitement as thousands thronged-in for the 10th edition of the Airtel-Kabaka’s ran.
The run, which is held annually to celebrate the birth of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, drew a large turnout of runners from different parts of the country in commemoration of the monarch’s 68th birthday.
The Kabaka ascended to the throne in 1993 and is seen as the embodiment of the cultural identity and values of the Baganda people who hold him in high esteem.
Clad in short sleeved blue jacket, the Kabaka arrived at set off point amidst ululations as Mesach Ssemakula sang his hit single, “njagala Nyimbire omutanda”.
Under the theme “Ending HIV/AIDS by 2030”, the run attracted over 100,000 people from all walks of life.
Speaking shortly after the run, Airtel Uganda Managing Director Manoj Murali reiterated the importance of developing a healthy human capital, which he says is crucial for the transformation of any society.
“As part of our sustainability agenda, we are committed to developing and supporting partnerships that reduce barriers in health, education and agriculture. We are proud to support these efforts aimed at ending the HIV/AIDS pandemic by 2030 because this economy needs a healthy workforce.” said Murali
Owek.Charles Peter Mayiga, The Katikkiro of Buganda, commended Airtel Uganda for its unwavering commitment to reducing the country’s disease burden and building a healthy population. Mayiga rallied Ugandans to continue supporting the kingdom’s goal of delivering a health workforce.
Since inception in 2003, the annual Kabaka Birthday Run has over the last 10 years rallied Ugandans to celebrate the Kabaka’s life while participating in efforts to reduce the burden of disease and poverty.
Previous editions have focused on ending sickle cell, fistula, as well as encouraging people to join efforts towards ending the spread of HIV/ AIDS by 2030.
